Braised Belgian Endive

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Trim off the root ends and remove any discolored outer leaves of: 4 Belgian endive.

   Step 2

   Cut in half lengthwise and season well with: Salt.

   Step 3

   Melt in a heavy-bottomed skillet: 2 tablespoons butter.

   Step 4

   Add the endive, cut side down, and cook over medium heat until nicely browned. This can be done in batches, adding more butter with each batch. The pan will brown, which is fine; just don’t allow it to blacken. If it does, wash it out before adding the next batch. Place the endive, browned sides up, in a baking dish just large enough to hold them in a single layer. Pour in: About 1 cup chicken broth.

   Step 5

   The broth should be about 1/2 inch deep in the dish. Cover tightly and bake in a 400°F oven until tender, about 20 minutes. Check for doneness by probing the core with a sharp knife.

2. Variations

   Step 6

   Wrap each endive half in a thin slice of pancetta or bacon before browning. Brown the wrapped endives on both sides, using more butter if necessary, and braise as above.

   Step 7

   Place the cut endives in a baking dish and pour in about 3/4 cup cream, season with salt and pepper, and cook until tender, brown, and bubbling.